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Saturday, December 31, 2011

Col’s “Books Most Likely To” Awards 2011

In any year there are good books, and there are not so good books. But in the final analysis, only a few books actually make you feel, think, or do something. These are the books that make your reading year. So I thought I’d share this “Books Most Likely To” List with you all – because reading shouldn’t be a spectator sport!

All in all, a satisfying reading year. I finished all 12 of the challenges I entered (by the skin of my teeth), and managed to review 53 titles. Translated fiction, contemporary fiction, historical fiction, 19th and 20th century classics, cookbooks and non-fiction titles all found their way to the top of my TBR pile – and wormed their way into my heart. Female authors dominated my reading this year, and I read books by authors from every continent (but only because Ngaio Marsh was from New Zealand – I have to do something about my lack of Australian titles). Wishing you a happy, healthy, active year of booking in 2012!

I just discovered your blog, and I love it! It's delightful to see you are such an avid reader. Now, as if you didn't already have enough books on your list for 2012, I have three to suggest, based on what I saw on your list:

A Fortune-Teller Told Me: Earthbound Travels in the Far East, by Tiziano Terzani: The experiences of a seasoned journalist during a year when he does not fly -- at all -- and yet travels all around Asia, often consulting with local fortune-tellers.

The Coroner's Lunch, by Colin Cotterill: Since you like mysteries, and exotic places. I think the series is up to No. 10 by now. I have read them all, and loved them all except The Merry Misogynist (which was none too merry).

For your Venice readings: The Passion, by Jeanette Winterson. I have read only three of her novels, but this one sticks in my head, and I mean to reread it one day.

About Me

Wife and mom and daughter; Latin dance lover; communications professor; political communications researcher; avid reader; adventurous cook; generally a wiseass, if my friends and family are to be believed.